· Identify the atmospheric forces that generate a resulting surface wind. Include explanations of pressure measurement and units of pressure, isobars, isobaric maps, pressure gradients, and the simultaneous interactions of forces.
· Next, contrast surface winds to upper atmospheric winds. Be sure to include geostrophic/gradient winds, super- and subgeostrophic flow, and ridges and troughs.
· Review the concepts of atmospheric moisture, phase changes, saturation, and condensation/freezing nuclei; associated lapse rates; and adiabatic process in parcel theory in the development of clouds.
· Contrast the different forms of condensation (including cloud types) and the role of atmospheric stability in the development of clouds.
· Compare the two precipitation-generating mechanisms relative to the various forms of precipitation.